Pensarn Level Crossings
We are excited to share our plan to make a significant investment in Abergele and Pensarn, North Wales to increase the number of trains on the North Wales Coast.
This plan will not only improve travel for North Wales but also boost local tourism and support growth in communities.
We are working alongside Transport for Wales to lift the number of services on the North Wales coast by 50%. As well as increasing capacity by 40%. This is supported by a wider £800 million investment from the Welsh Government for new trains and more carriages. As well as additional drivers and train crew to support services in Wales and Borders. To increase the number of services safely, we have reviewed the crossing usage in the area and the added risks that this may bring.
To protect the public from the risks, we propose permanently closing two level crossings (Pen Uchaf and Ty Gwyn). And constructing a safer alternative way to cross over the railway.
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What are we proposing?
After launching the website, sending out letters, and engaging with the community, we received valuable feedback that helped shape updates to our plan. A summary of these comments is available in the document below.
Our proposal in the Pensarn area is to construct a single-ramped footbridge between Ty Gwyn and Pen Uchaf level crossings. The proposed location of the bridge has been chosen to minimise the visual impact on nearby homes.
We took on feedback from our public engagement sessions. Our design has changed with the height of the bridge reduced.
The images shown are for illustration only as the proposed bridge is subject to change as the project develops.
Why is the work needed?
These crossings are among the highest-risk crossings on the Wales and Borders network. With Ty Gwyn being 21st and Pen Uchaf 37th out of 1000. Regular users of these crossings include families, children, and dog walkers. We have received numerous reports of near misses and instances of misuse. By increasing the frequency of trains, this risk is likely to increase. We want to create a safer way for people to cross the railway by reducing the risk of accidents.
Closing the level crossings will also help us increase line speeds and improve train punctuality on the line. More services for North Wales will help drive economic and social benefits for the area.
When is the work taking place?
We are still in the early stages of development work. Our goal is to have the permanent bridge ready for use in early 2027. Until then, we’ll focus on essential tasks such as conducting surveys and completing design plans. As well as carrying out construction work to ensure the project’s success.
How will this work affect me?
We have an opportunity to increase the train service before that, in May 2026. This means that for safety reasons we will need to put in temporary arrangements at both level crossings before the bridge is ready. We are currently exploring what temporary arrangements will be needed to enable residents to cross safely over the railway until the new bridge is open.
We understand that construction work can sometimes cause noise and traffic disruptions. We are committed to working closely with our contractors to minimise any inconvenience or disturbance as much as possible.
Public Engagement
Details will be released soon.
Active Travel
We’re working alongside the Welsh Government, Transport for Wales and Local Authority to provide a wider bridge that will connect with the local Active Travel network.
Get in touch
If you have any additional questions or feedback you want to share about the project, please call our dedicated 24-hour national helpline on: 03457 11 41 41 or email crwales@networkrail.co.uk.
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